MMA Match Preview: Title Fight Alexander Volkanovski (27-4) vs. Diego Lopes (27-7) 2
The featherweight division takes center stage in the main event of UFC 325 as two-time champion Alexander “The Great” Volkanovski (27-4-0) defends his UFC Featherweight Championship in a rematch against Diego Lopes (27-7-0). Volkanovski, the Australian icon, aims to solidify his legacy with a second win over Lopes after reclaiming the vacant title in their first encounter in 2025. Lopes, the Brazilian phenom riding a wave of momentum, seeks revenge and his first UFC title in what promises to be a high-level technical battle blending Volkanovski’s wrestling and cardio with Lopes’ dynamic striking and submission threats. This rematch could define the 145-pound landscape, potentially leading to a decision in a chess match or a finish if Lopes’ power connects early.
Venue Location
The fight will be held at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. This 21,000-capacity multi-purpose arena is a staple for UFC events in the region, known for its electric atmosphere, especially for home-country heroes like Volkanovski.
Ring walks are scheduled for 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PT / 9:00 AM AEDT local time on February 1). Prelims follow at 7:00 PM ET (4:00 PM PT / 11:00 AM AEDT), and the main card at 9:00 PM ET (6:00 PM PT / 1:00 PM AEDT on February 1). Cage walks for the main event (Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2) are expected around 11:00 PM-12:00 AM ET (8:00-9:00 PM PT / 3:00-4:00 PM AEDT on February 1). The event airs live on Paramount+ worldwide.
Injury Report
No injuries have been reported for either fighter leading into UFC 325. Both completed full training camps without disruptions. Volkanovski has a history of concussion concerns from his 2023-2024 knockouts (against Islam Makhachev), but he has been medically cleared and emphasized full recovery in interviews. Lopes has no recent injury history and enters in peak condition after a strong 2025.
Alexander Volkanovski:
No active injuries; fully recovered from past concussions and cleared for title defense.
Diego Lopes:
No reported issues; durable with no setbacks in his recent run.
Fighter Matchups
This UFC Featherweight Championship rematch contrasts Volkanovski’s championship experience and wrestling with Lopes’ dynamic southpaw striking and submissions, creating a high-level clash at 145 pounds.
Alexander Volkanovski (age 37, 5’6″, 71.5″ reach, orthodox): A master tactician with elite wrestling, cardio, and striking volume, Volkanovski excels in pressure, takedowns, and ground control. His style suits wearing down opponents with pace, but age and recent KO losses raise questions about chin durability. Weaknesses include vulnerability to taller strikers who keep distance.
Diego Lopes (age 31, 5’11”, 72.5″ reach, southpaw): A dynamic finisher with sharp southpaw striking, submissions, and explosive power, Lopes thrives in chaotic exchanges and transitions. His 63% finish rate (9 KO/TKO, 8 subs) shows versatility, but he can be outwrestled by elite grapplers. Weaknesses include occasional over-aggression leading to takedowns.
Key Stylistic Clash: Volkanovski’s wrestling pressure and cardio vs. Lopes’ southpaw striking and submissions. Volkanovski must close distance for takedowns; Lopes needs to use reach for counters and keep it standing.
Strengths/Weaknesses: Volkanovski’s experience (two-time champ) and home advantage favor him in a grind; Lopes’ youth, power, and recent streak offer upset potential if he connects early.
X-Factor: Volkanovski’s home-crowd energy in Sydney could boost his pace; if Lopes exploits any age-related decline, his finishing shines.
Recent Form
Volkanovski rebounds from a mixed 2025 with a title win, while Lopes enters on a strong streak.
Alexander Volkanovski (Last 5: W L L L W):
2025: UD win vs. Lopes (reclaimed vacant title).
Prior: KO losses to Makhachev (twice) and Topuria.
Form Notes: 2 wins in last 5; elite cardio but chin concerns post-KOs.
Diego Lopes (Last 5: L W W W W):
2025: UD loss vs. Volkanovski (title fight).
Prior: 4 straight wins with 3 finishes (KO/TKO and subs).
Form Notes: 4 wins in last 5; dynamic finishing streak.
| Fighter | Last 5 Record | Finish % | Avg. Rounds Last 5 | Key Stat |
| Alexander Volkanovski | W L L L W | 59% | 4.2 | Two-time champ |
| Diego Lopes | L W W W W | 63% | 2.8 | Dynamic finisher |
Fight History
This is a rematch; the first fight occurred in 2025, where Volkanovski defeated Lopes via unanimous decision (48-47, 49-46, 49-46) to reclaim the vacant UFC Featherweight Championship. No shared opponents beyond that; Volkanovski’s path includes wins over Max Holloway (3x), while Lopes has notable finishes against Brian Ortega and Dan Ige.
FIGHT ODDS
Alexander Volkanovski – 160
Diego Lopes + 140
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2026
